The Importance of Socialisation for Seniors

The Importance of Socialisation for Seniors – By Interchange Australia Consultant, Wendy Hughes

Socialisation is such an important part of everyone’s health and as we age, it is often overlooked for the physical issues that tend to occur. Sadly, as many people age they begin to lose their social contacts through reasons such as not being able to drive, becoming housebound through either their or their family member’s ill health, and friends passing away. All these circumstances reduce normal social contacts, resulting in a constant decline in social function. The need to maintain social interaction has been widely researched, and those engaged in social contact had a much slower rate of cognitive decline, had fewer illnesses and were less prone to depression.

Interchange Australia runs Men’s social groups twice per week. On Tuesday’s, the group meets for some interactive and fun card or board games before visiting a local café in Bowral for morning tea. On Thursday’s, the group visits a local café followed by a game of tenpin bowling or snooker, alternating on a fortnightly basis. Both groups offer the men an opportunity to socialise and engage in both recreational and cognitive activities that make a positive impact upon their overall well-being.

For more information about the services Interchange Australia offers to seniors, including social groups, please call one of our friendly and experienced consultants on 1300 112 334.